HISTORY
THE VERY BEGINNING
The Rajun’ Bull Marching Band was founded the same year that Bloomingdale High School first opened its doors, 1987.
​
Initially formed under the direction of Ted Hope, the program made a name for itself from the get-go. The band also began a tradition of straight superiors at FBA District Marching MPA: a tradition that’s been going strong for 30+ years!
​
The first show was called "Empire of the Sun: A Tribute to John Williams"
Ted Hope served as band director for 16 years before moving on to become Supervisor Of Secondary Music For Hillsborough County. From 2004 through 2023, Jon Sever took the mantle, continuing the band program's tradition of superior performances.
Sever has been recognized by the county, state, and country for his dedication and passion for his work, his students and the Bloomingdale program. A few examples include Teacher of the Year, FMEA Music Educator of the Year (2015-2016), and The John Philip Sousa Foundation.
​
Sever took the Bloomingdale music program international with our first trip to London in 2010, opening up the opportunity for international trips every four years to follow.
​
Sever followed in his predecessor's footsteps, being promoted to HCPS Supervisor of Secondary Music in 2023. His influence will always have an affect on the sprit of Bloomingdale and the music program as a whole. READ MORE HERE.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
1988 - EMPIRE OF THE SUN
1989 - WEST SIDE STORY
1990 - GLORY
1991 - THE PLANETS
1992 - LES MISÉRABLES
1993 - CITY OF ANGELS
1994 - EVITA
1995 - LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
1996 - JEKYLL & HYDE
1997 - 100 YEARS OF GERSHWIN
1998 - RAGTIME THE MUSICAL
1999 - GYPSY
2001 - CHUCK MANGIONE
2002 - NEW ORLEANS JAZZ
2003 - STYX
2004 - CORARONES ESPANÕLES
2005 - SALUTE TO THE SILVER SCREENS
2006 - THE INCREDIBLES
2007 - RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS
2008 - SOUTHERN STYLE AND GRACE
2009 - JOURNEY
2010 - BRITISH INVASION TOUR
2011 - HEROES AND VILLAINS
2013 - JAMES BOND
2014 - BULLS ON SAFARI
2015 - SURVIVORS
2016 - THE EAGLES
2017 - TALES OF KINGS AND CASTLES
2018 - THE INCREDIBLES 2
2019 - A NIGHT IN HAVANA
2020 - QUEEN: DON'T STOP US NOW
2021 - SOUTHERN ROCK N' SOUL
1987
BSHS OPENS
2004
JON SEVER BECOMES BAND DIRECTOR
2010
TRIP TO LONDON
2014
TRIP TO ROME
2019
TRIP TO AUSTRIA
2022 - EARTH, WIND, & FIRE
2022
TRIP TO LONDON
2023
JORDAN FRAZE BECOMES BAND DIRECTOR
2023 - NIGHT OF FRIGHT
